I am writing this letter to share concerns about potential deep cuts in Medicaid funding for facilities that provide quality care to adults with serious mental illnesses.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have provided treatment to adults struggling with serious mental health issues for over 10 years. Some of my clients are able to live in independent settings with wrap-around services and see me in my office. However, some clients are unable to live on their own due to the severity of their symptoms and require more intensive supervision, support and intervention. Some move out with ample support, only to return after regressing and being unable to manage without 24-hour supervision and treatment. Without facilities like Albany Care, I fear what could happen to the safety, stability, and quality of life to so many individuals who deal with chronic mental health conditions.
While I know cuts are inevitable and deficits need to be addressed, I believe the current proposals are focusing in the wrong place and may have devastating effects. Adults with serious mental illnesses already encounter limited resources and services, and continue to be marginalized in our communities and society. Furthermore, it seems obvious that these severe cuts may reduce some initial costs but would likely result in much larger costs, such as inpatient hospitalizations, unnecessary emergency room visits, and even homelessness. Additionally, these cuts may yield disturbing outcomes such as higher rates of suicide, inappropriate treatment for those with serious mental illnesses, as well as increase burden and stress on family members to manage their loved one’s illness.
Please reconsider the important role of nursing homes that specialize in serving those with serious mental illnesses. I urge you to explore other ways to address deficits rather than take away from those who need the most and have the least support and assistance.
Michelle Chaban, Psy.D.
Deerfield